Components of Computer

A computer consists of several key components, each serving a specific function to enable the
system to perform tasks. The components can be broadly categorized into hardware and
software:

1. Hardware Components

a) Input Devices

 Devices used to send data to the computer for processing.

o Examples: Keyboard, Mouse, Scanner, Microphone, Joystick, Webcam.

b) Output Devices

 Devices used to receive data from the computer.

o Examples: Monitor, Printer, Speakers, Projector, Headphones.

c) Central Processing Unit (CPU)

 Known as the "brain" of the computer.

 It executes instructions and processes data.
o Components of CPU:
1. Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU): Performs arithmetic and logical
operations.
2. Control Unit (CU): Directs the operations of the computer by managing
input, processing, and output.
3. Registers: High-speed storage locations for temporary data.

d) Memory/Storage

 Stores data temporarily or permanently.

 o Primary Memory:
 RAM (Random Access Memory): Temporary storage for data and
instructions currently in use.
 ROM (Read-Only Memory): Stores essential data needed to boot the
system.
o Secondary Storage:
 Hard Disk Drives (HDD), Solid-State Drives (SSD), USB Flash Drives,
Optical Discs (CD/DVD).
o Cache Memory:
 High-speed memory for frequently used instructions.
o Virtual Memory:
 Temporary memory created by the operating system using the hard disk.

e) Motherboard

 The main circuit board that connects all the components of the computer.
 Houses the CPU, memory, storage interfaces, and expansion slots.

f) Power Supply Unit (PSU)

 Converts electrical power into a usable form for the computer's components.

g) Communication Devices

 Enable networking and communication between computers.

o Examples: Network Interface Card (NIC), Modem, Wi-Fi Adapter.

2. Software Components

a) System Software

 Manages the hardware and provides basic functionalities.

o Examples: Operating System (Windows, macOS, Linux), Utility Programs.

b) Application Software

 Designed for specific tasks or applications.

o Examples: Word Processors, Browsers, Games, Media Players.

3. Peripheral Devices

 External devices connected to the computer to enhance functionality.

o Examples: External Hard Drives, Printers, External Monitors, Game Controllers.
Hardware

Hardware refers to the physical components of a computer system or any electronic device.
These are tangible parts that you can touch and see.

Examples of Hardware:

1. Input Devices: Mouse, keyboard, scanner, microphone.

2. Output Devices: Monitor, printer, speakers.
3. Storage Devices: Hard disk drive (HDD), solid-state drive (SSD), USB flash drives.
4. Internal Components: CPU, motherboard, RAM, power supply, GPU.

Key Features of Hardware:

 Essential for running software.

 Performance depends on specifications like processor speed, memory size, etc.
 Can be replaced or upgraded.

Software

Software refers to the intangible set of instructions, programs, or data that tell hardware what
to do. It acts as a bridge between the user and hardware.

Types of Software:

1. System Software: Manages the hardware and system resources.

o Example: Operating systems (Windows, macOS, Linux).
2. Application Software: Designed for specific user tasks.
o Example: MS Word, web browsers, gaming apps.
3. Programming Software: Tools for developers to write code.
o Example: Compilers, text editors, debugging tools.

Key Features of Software:

 Cannot function without hardware.

 Can be updated or reinstalled.
 May require licensing or subscription.
Input Devices Overview

Input devices are hardware components used to provide data and control signals to a computer
system. They allow users to interact with the computer by sending instructions or data to be
processed. Input devices come in various types depending on their purpose and the way they
capture and transmit data. Below is a detailed explanation of input devices:

Types of Input Devices

1. Keyboard
o Description: A keyboard is one of the most common input devices, consisting of
keys for typing letters, numbers, symbols, and executing commands.
o Uses: Typing text, issuing commands, and programming.

Key Types Description

Typing Keys These keys include the letter keys (A-Z) and digit keys (09)
which generally give the same layout as that of typewriters.
Numeric Keypad It is used to enter the numeric data or cursor movement.
Generally, it consists of a set of 17 keys that are laid out in
the same configuration used by most adding machines and
calculators.
Function Keys The twelve function keys are present on the keyboard
which is arranged in a row at the top of the keyboard. Each
function key has a unique meaning and is used for some
specific purpose.
Control keys These keys provide cursor and screen control. It includes
four directional arrow keys. Control keys also include
Home, End, Insert, Delete, Page Up, Page Down,
Control(Ctrl), Alternate(Alt), Escape(Esc).
Special Purpose Keys Keyboard also contains some special purpose keys such
as Enter, Shift, Caps Lock, Num Lock, Space bar, Tab,
and Print Screen.
 2. Mouse
o Description: A pointing device that detects two-dimensional motion and
translates it into cursor movement on the screen.
o Uses: Selecting, dragging, dropping, and navigating graphical user interfaces
(GUI).

Mouse operations
 Click: pressing and releasing a button.
 (left) Single-click: clicking the main button.

 (left) Double-click: clicking the button two times in quick succession counts as a
different gesture than two separate single clicks.

 (left) Triple-click: clicking the button three times in quick succession counts as a
different gesture than three separate single clicks. Triple clicks are far less
common in traditional navigation.

 Right-click: clicking the secondary button, or clicking with two fingers. (This brings
a menu with different options depending on the software)

 Middle-click: clicking the tertiary button.

 Drag and drop: pressing and holding a button, then moving the mouse without
releasing.
 3. Touchscreen
o Description: A display that also functions as an input device by detecting touch
gestures.
o Uses: Smartphones, tablets, and modern laptops.
4. Scanner
o Description: Converts physical documents or images into digital form.
o Uses: Digitizing photographs, documents, or barcodes.
5. Microphone
o Description: Captures audio signals and converts them into digital data.
o Uses: Voice communication, recording, and voice commands.
6. Camera
o Description: Captures still images or videos and converts them into digital
signals.
o Uses: Video conferencing, photography, and motion detection.
7. Joystick
o Description: A stick that pivots on a base and sends directional inputs.
o Uses: Gaming, simulators, and controlling robotic arms.
8. Light Pen
o Description: A pen-shaped device used to interact directly with a screen.
o Uses: Drawing and making selections on monitors.
9. Graphics Tablet
o Description: A flat, pressure-sensitive surface used to draw or write digitally with
a stylus.
o Uses: Digital art and graphic design.
10. Game Controller
o Description: Handheld devices with buttons and joysticks designed for gaming.
o Uses: Gaming and virtual reality navigation.
11. Biometric Devices
o Description: Devices that use biological data like fingerprints, retina scans, or
facial recognition.
o Uses: Security and authentication.
12. Trackball
o Description: A stationary device with a movable ball for cursor control.
o Uses: CAD applications and precision tasks.
13. Barcode Scanner
o Description: Reads barcodes on products and converts them into data.
o Uses: Inventory management and retail.
14. Digital Sensors
o Description: Collect data from the environment, such as temperature, motion, or
pressure.
o Uses: IoT devices, robotics, and environmental monitoring.

Importance of Input Devices

  User Interaction: Enables users to interact with computers efficiently.
 Data Collection: Facilitates the entry of data into the system.
 Improved Accessibility: Enhances usability for people with different needs through
alternative input devices like voice recognition and braille keyboards.

Output Devices

Output devices are peripherals used to convey information from a computer or other electronic
systems to the user or another device. They play a critical role in the communication between
humans and machines by translating the computer's digital signals into human-perceivable forms
such as visual, audio, or physical outputs.

Types of Output Devices

1. Visual Output Devices These devices display images, text, videos, or graphics in a
format that can be visually interpreted by humans.
o Monitor (Display Screen):

CRT Monitor: CRT is Cathode Ray Tube is a big size and takes up a lot of desk
space. It uses cathode ray tube to display video and graphics on the screen.
LCD Monitor: LCD is Liquid Crystal Display uses a special type of liquid crystal
to display video and graphics on the screen. It consumes very less power than
CRT monitor. It is very lighter and more portable than the CRT monitor.
LED Monitor: LED is Light Emitting Diodes. LED is the advance application of
LCD. The LED monitor consumes lesser power.
Digital Monitor: A digital display that uses liquid crystal cells that change
reflectivity in an applied electric field; used for portable computer displays and
watches etc. active matrix screen. a type of LCD screen used for some portable
computers; there is a separate circuit for each pixel.
Analog Monitor: An analog monitor is a monitor capable of accepting
continuously varying or analog signals from the video adapter for an infinite
range of different colors. The majority of all CRT monitors are analog monitors
and all flat-panel displays are digital.

o Projector:
 Projects images or videos onto a large surface, typically used for
presentations, classrooms, or theaters.
 Types include DLP, LCD, and LED projectors.
 2. Audio Output Devices These devices produce sound output.
o Speakers:
 Convert digital audio signals into sound.
 Commonly used for music, movies, or system notifications.
o Headphones/Earphones:
 Provide personal audio output, ideal for private listening.
o Soundbars:
 Used for enhanced audio output, especially with televisions or gaming
setups.
3. Print Output Devices These devices produce hard copies of digital content.
o Printers:
 Convert digital documents into physical copies.
 Types include:
 Inkjet Printers: Ideal for high-quality photo printing.
 Laser Printers: Efficient for bulk printing with sharp text output.
 3D Printers: Print 3D objects by layering materials such as plastic
or metal.
o Plotters:
 Used for large-scale prints like engineering drawings, maps, or posters.
 Capable of precise line work.
4. Display and Indicator Devices These provide quick, simplified output or status
notifications.
o LED Displays: Used in devices like calculators, digital clocks, and microwaves.
o Digital Signage: Provides real-time updates in public spaces such as airports or
malls.
5. Tactile Output Devices These devices provide physical feedback or output.
o Braille Displays:
 Allow visually impaired users to read text via tactile feedback.
o Haptic Devices:
 Used in gaming or virtual reality to provide vibration or motion feedback.

Characteristics of Output Devices

 Resolution and Clarity: Determines the quality of the visual or printed output.
 Speed: Refers to the time taken to produce the desired output (e.g., printer speed in pages
per minute).
 Compatibility: Ability to work seamlessly with various systems.
 Durability: Longevity and ability to perform under consistent use.

Applications

 Education and Training: For presentations, video tutorials, or simulation-based

learning.
 Entertainment: Monitors, speakers, and VR devices for movies, gaming, and music.
  Professional Work: Printers for reports, monitors for designing, and plotters for
engineering applications.
 Accessibility: Braille displays and audio devices for individuals with disabilities.

A block diagram of a computer typically outlines the major components and their
interconnections. Here's a basic block diagram illustrating the key components of a
computer system:

Input Devices: Devices such as keyboard, mouse, touchpad, or touch screen that allow
users to interact with the computer system by providing input.
Central Processing Unit (CPU): The brain of the computer, responsible for executing
instructions, performing calculations, and controlling the overall operation of the system.

Memory (RAM): Temporary storage that holds data and instructions that the CPU
needs to access quickly. Random Access Memory (RAM) allows for fast read and write
operations but is volatile (loses data when power is off).

Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU): The part of the CPU that performs arithmetic and logical
operations, such as addition, subtraction, AND, OR, etc.

Control Unit: Manages the execution of instructions, fetches instructions from memory,
decodes them, and coordinates the operation of the other CPU components.

Cache Memory: High-speed memory located within or close to the CPU that stores
frequently accessed data and instructions, speeding up access times.

Storage Devices: Devices such as Hard Disk Drives (HDDs), Solid State Drives
(SSDs), or Flash drives used for long-term storage of data and programs.
1.1 INPUT UNITS: KEYBOARD
Keyboard is the most common and very popular input device which helps to input
data to the computer. The layout of the keyboard is like that of traditional typewriter,
although there are some additional keys provided for performing additional functions.

Keyboards are of two sizes 84 keys or 101/102 keys, but now keyboards with 104 keys
or 108 keys are also available for Windows and Internet.

Key Types Description

Typing Keys These keys include the letter keys (A-Z) and digit keys (09)
which generally give the same layout as that of typewriters.
Numeric Keypad It is used to enter the numeric data or cursor movement.
Generally, it consists of a set of 17 keys that are laid out in
the same configuration used by most adding machines and
calculators.
Function Keys The twelve function keys are present on the keyboard
which is arranged in a row at the top of the keyboard. Each
function key has a unique meaning and is used for some
specific purpose.
Control keys These keys provide cursor and screen control. It includes
four directional arrow keys. Control keys also include
Home, End, Insert, Delete, Page Up, Page Down,
Control(Ctrl), Alternate(Alt), Escape(Esc).
Special Purpose Keys Keyboard also contains some special purpose keys such
 as Enter, Shift, Caps Lock, Num Lock, Space bar, Tab,
and Print Screen.

1.2 MOUSE
Mouse is the most popular pointing device. It is a very famous cursor-control
device having a small palm size box with a round ball at its base, which senses the
movement of the mouse and sends corresponding signals to the CPU when the mouse
buttons are pressed.

Generally, it has two buttons called the left and the right button and a wheel is present
between the buttons. A mouse can be used to control the position of the cursor on the
screen, but it cannot be used to enter text into the computer. Most mice are now optical
which means they use a laser to detect and track movement across the surface. Mice
can be wired or wireless.

Mouse operations
 Click: pressing and releasing a button.
 (left) Single-click: clicking the main button.

 (left) Double-click: clicking the button two times in quick succession counts as a
different gesture than two separate single clicks.

 (left) Triple-click: clicking the button three times in quick succession counts as a
different gesture than three separate single clicks. Triple clicks are far less
common in traditional navigation.
  Right-click: clicking the secondary button, or clicking with two fingers. (This brings
a menu with different options depending on the software)

 Middle-click: clicking the tertiary button.

 Drag and drop: pressing and holding a button, then moving the mouse without
releasing.

1.3 SCANNERS AND ITS TYPES

A scanner is an input device that scans documents such as photographs and
pages of text. When a document is scanned, it is converted into a digital format. This
creates an electronic version of the document that can be viewed and edited on a
computer.

Most scanners are flatbed devices, which mean they have a flat scanning surface. This
is ideal for photographs, magazines, and various documents. Most flatbed scanners
have a cover that lifts up so that books and other bulky objects can also be scanned.
Another type of scanner is a sheet-fed scanner, which can only accept paper
documents. While sheet-fed scanners cannot scan books, some models include an
automatic document feeder, or ADF, which allows multiple pages to be scanned in
sequence.

Types of Computer Scanners

 Sheet fed scanner - scans paper by feeding it into the scanner

 Handheld scanner - scans text and images by dragging the device

over the page you want to scan

 Card scanner - designed to scan business cards

Prominent features of a scanner include:

Reliability - Unlike certain forms of data transmission, scanning involves only transfer
of hard images to digital forms. The role of the end-user is limited in case
of scanning. And as they are not dependent on two-way communication,
 they can also help in storing important information or transmitting
important information.

Efficiency - Modern scanners are built for efficiency and speed. And it comes with
ease of use as well as convenience.

Quality - Scanning ensures the best resolution possible for digital images.
Compared to fax machines, which may find it difficult to reproduce the
accurate details, scanners can reproduce images with high resolution and
precisions. They are quite useful for photography and engineering arenas.

Cost saving-One of the biggest advantage of scanning is the replacement of physical

files/forms with digital ones. Along with saving physical space, which has
to be used for storage, there are also environmental benefits by using
scanner.

1.4 OUTPUT UNITS: MONITORS

Monitor is the most commonly used output device used to display results of
processing. Pictures on monitor are formed with picture elements called PIXEL.

1.4.1 CLASSIFICATION OF MONITORS

CRT Monitor: CRT is Cathode Ray Tube is a big size and takes up a lot of desk space.
It uses cathode ray tube to display video and graphics on the screen.
LCD Monitor: LCD is Liquid Crystal Display uses a special type of liquid crystal to
display video and graphics on the screen. It consumes very less power than CRT
monitor. It is very lighter and more portable than the CRT monitor.
LED Monitor: LED is Light Emitting Diodes. LED is the advance application of LCD.
The LED monitor consumes lesser power.
Digital Monitor: A digital display that uses liquid crystal cells that change reflectivity in
an applied electric field; used for portable computer displays and watches etc. active
matrix screen. a type of LCD screen used for some portable computers; there is a
separate circuit for each pixel.

Analog Monitor: An analog monitor is a monitor capable of accepting

continuously varying or analog signals from the video adapter for an infinite range of
different colors. The majority of all CRT monitors are analog monitors and all flat-panel
displays are digital.

1.4.2 CHARACTERISTICS OF MONITOR

 Size The most important aspect of a monitor is its size. Screen sizes are
measured in diagonal inches, the distance from one corner to
another opposite corner diagonally.
Resolution The resolution of a monitor indicates how density the pixels are
packed. Pixel is short for picture element.
Band Width The amount of data that can be transmitted in a fixed amount of
time. For digital devices, the band width is usually expressed in bits
or bytes per second (bps). For analog devices it is expressed in
cycle per second or Hertz (Hz).
Refresh Rate Display monitors must be refresh many times per second. The
refresh rate determines how many times per seconds the screen is
to be red drawn. The refresh rate of a monitor is measured in Hertz.
The faster the refreshers, the less the monitor flickers.
Interlacing It is a technique in which instead of scanning the image one line at a
time, it scans alternately i.e. alternate lines are scanned at each
pass.
Dot per Inch It is measured for the actual sharpness of the on screen image. This
depends on both the resolution & the size of the image. Practical
experience shows that a smaller screen has a sharper image at the
same resolution than does a large screen.
Dot Pitch A measurement that indicates the vertical distance between each
pixel on a display screen. It is measured in millimetre.
Storage The Computer has an in-built memory where it can store a large
amount of data.

1.5 PRINTERS
Printers are used to produce hard copy output. They print processing results on
paper. Printers are divided into two main categories: Impact Printers & Non-Impact
printers.
1.5.1 IMPACT PRINTERS AND ITS TYPES

Impact printers print the characters by striking them on the ribbon, which is then
pressed on the paper. These printers are of two types like, Dot Matrix Printer and Daisy
Wheel Printer.

1.5.2 DOT MATRIX PRINTER

A dot matrix printer is an impact printer that creates characters and images by
striking a print head, which contains a grid of small pins, against an ink ribbon to
transfer ink onto paper. This process forms patterns of dots that collectively represent
text and graphics. Known for their robustness and ability to print on multi-part forms and
carbon copies, dot matrix printers are often used in environments where continuous,
reliable printing is required, such as in warehouses, retail settings, and logistics.

1.5.3 DAISY WHEEL PRINTERS

Daisy wheel printers are impact printers that produce high-quality text by striking
a wheel-shaped print head, known as a daisy wheel, against an ink ribbon to print
characters on paper. Each "petal" of the daisy wheel contains a single character, and
the wheel spins to position the correct character before it strikes. Commonly used in the
1970s and 1980s, these printers were known for their precision and ability to produce
crisp, typewriter-like text, making them popular for professional and office use.

Characteristics of Impact Printers are the following –

 Very low consumable costs
 Very noisy
  Useful for bulk printing due to low cost
 There is physical contact with the paper to produce an image
These printers print with striking of hammers or pins on ribbon.

1.5.4 NON-IMPACT PRINTERS AND ITS TYPES

Non-impact printers print the characters without using the ribbon. These printers print a
complete page at a time, thus they are also called as Page Printers. These printers do
not use striking mechanism for printing. They use electrostatic and laser technology.
Quality and speed of these printers is better than Impact printers. These printers are of
two types namely Laser printer and Inkjet Printer.

1.5.5 LASER PRINTERS

Laser printers are a ubiquitous technology in modern offices and homes, offering fast
and high-quality printing solutions. Utilizing a laser beam to create an electrostatic
image on a rotating drum, they employ toner, a fine powder, to transfer the image onto
paper through a process of electro statically charged rollers. The paper is then fused
with heat to produce crisp, smudge-resistant prints. Laser printers excel in handling
large volumes of text documents and graphics with sharp detail and consistent output.
Their efficiency, speed, and relatively low cost per page make them ideal for businesses
and individuals seeking reliable printing solutions.
1.5.6 INKJET PRINTERS

Inkjet printers represent a ubiquitous technology in modern printing, employing

microscopic droplets of ink to produce high-quality prints. These printers work by
propelling tiny droplets of ink onto paper, creating text, images, or graphics with
precision and vibrancy. They are favored for their versatility, capable of producing
everything from documents to photographs with impressive detail and color accuracy.
Inkjet printers find extensive use in homes, offices, and commercial settings due to their
affordability, ease of use, and ability to produce both black-and-white and color outputs.

Characteristics of Non-impact Printers

 Faster than impact printers
 They are not noisy
 High quality
 Supports many fonts and different character size